In Eritrea, girls are forced to serve in the military from as young as age 16, usually during their last year of secondary school. The indefinite, compulsory service has been likened by former recruits to a slavery system, with no time limit in sight. The daily life involves early morning jogging, severe weapons training, and long working hours. They also suffer from additional hurdles in the form of sexual harassment and assault, many reporting pregnancies after serving. The atmosphere is extremely militarized, where discipline is strict and there is hardly any personal freedom. Yet, many girls remain serving, their hopes of release often lost, as the government holds a very tight grip over their lives. This has provoked global outrage, with human rights groups likening Eritrea’s regime to slavery and pointing out the devastating effects on the lives of young women.

Pray for the end of forced military service in Eritrea. Pray for the LORD’s divine intervention in the nation against the oppressive regime. Pray for a political reformation in the country, for nothing is impossible with the LORD (The Holy Bible, Luke 1:37).

Pray for divine protection upon the Eritrean girl soldiers from all evil-doers. Pray for the LORD to heal them physically and psychologically, and bless them with hope and a bright future (The Holy Bible, Psalm 17:8).

News Source: Vice

Image Source: Canva